In each incident, victims were contacted by phone at their home by someone claiming to be either a police officer or a member of bank staff.
The caller raised concerns about suspicious activity on the victim’s account and said their money was at risk, asking them to assist with an urgent investigation.
The fraudsters convinced the victims they were genuine before instructing them to visit their bank or a foreign exchange bureau to withdraw cash. Victims were then told to hand over the money to a courier, who was falsely described as collecting it for safekeeping.
Officers are continuing enquiries into the reports. The investigation includes forensic examination, door-to-door enquiries and a review of CCTV footage in and around the affected areas to gather further information.
Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland via 101 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111, where information can be provided anonymously. Further advice on protecting yourself from fraud is available on Police Scotland’s website.
Chief Inspector Paul Daley, Area Commander for East Renfrewshire, said:
“Banks or police officers will never ask customers to withdraw cash or ask for any money. No legitimate organisation will send a courier to collect cash.
“These offenders deliberately target older and vulnerable people. They use fear, urgency and authority to manipulate victims into handing over large sums of money. If someone phones and asks you to withdraw money or give money to a courier, hang up immediately. It is a scam.
“I would also ask everyone to ensure any elderly or vulnerable relatives or friends are made aware of the circumstances of this scam. It could prevent them falling victim to such fraud.”
